Barton Nature Area – Huron River loop from University of Michigan

Bike touring routes & trails

Barton Nature Area – Huron River loop from University of Michigan

Moderate

4.9

(5123)

9,774

riders

Barton Nature Area – Huron River loop from University of Michigan

02:22

28.9km

280m

Cycling

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: August 4, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

5.60 km

Barton Nature Area

Highlight • Forest

The Barton Nature Area has a trail system that runs along the Huron River. You will run up to Barton Dam, cross two bridges over the river, and follow a trail that passes through prairies, meadows, and forests. There are many species and nests in the area; please stay on the trail and keep dogs leashed to avoid disturbing wildlife.

Tip by

9.62 km

Huron River

Highlight • River

The Huron River is a 130-mile-long river that flows into Lake Erie. This section that runs through Ann Arbor and several bike tours run along each bank of the river.

Tip by

10.7 km

Bluffs Nature Area Forest Trail

Highlight • Trail

Bluffs Nature Area is a 40 acre park located right in the heart of the city of Ann Arbor. The park has a variety of multi-use trails, with some of them being quite steep and challenging. The area is also home to lots of wildlife that isn't normally seen in the middle of a city, so don't be surprised if you see deer wandering around in the park.

Tip by

12.8 km

Kuebler Langford Nature Area

Nature Reserve

15.1 km

Huron Parkway Right of Way

Nature Reserve

16.2 km

Black Pond

Highlight • Lake

It's the color of this small pond that inspires the name of this beautiful nature area. In autumn, its waters turn very dark, almost black, due to the pigment from the leaves of the trees. It is important to not disturb the pool, as it is a critical breeding site for wood frogs and other local wildlife.

Tip by

16.4 km

Black Pond Woods Park

Highlight • Forest

The Black Pond Woods Nature area is found just north of the city center of Ann Arbor. The park is 54 acres in size, and is comprised mostly of woodlands and wetlands. The park gets its name from from a small pond that turns very dark brown/black in the autumn due to the leaf pigments of the surrounding trees in the forest.

Tip by

16.7 km

Black Pond Woods Nature Area

Highlight • Forest

The Black Pond Woods Nature area is found just north of the city center of Ann Arbor. The park is 54 acres in size, and is comprised mostly of woodlands and wetlands. The park gets its name from a small pond that turns very dark brown/black in the autumn due to the leaf pigments of the surrounding trees in the forest.

Tip by

23.1 km

Olson Park Pond

Highlight • Lake

This park, which used to be an old gravel quarry, is now a nature haven that you can explore on your bike through its different trails. Olson Park has different areas, among which the pond stands out, but you'll also find a fun playground, fountains, and picnic areas.

Tip by

28.9 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types